Coffee Reduces Risk of Depression in Women

Study Says Coffee Lowers Risk of Depression in Women

Here's an inspired reason to drink a daily cup of joe: new research shows that coffee consumption may reduce the chance of depression in women. The Archives of Internal Medicine published the study, having analyzed the data of over 50,000 women over a 10-year period. Meticulously examining participants' lifestyles, health, and coffee consumption over the years, researchers concluded that women who drink coffee daily are 20 percent less likely to become depressed than those who don't.

The author of the study, Dr. Albert Ascherio, spoke to The New York Times and admitted that more research is needed: "We know that caffeine enters the brain and activates the release of different neurotransmitters that are related to mood, like dopamine and serotonin . . . That may explain the short-term effects on mood. But the long-term mechanisms of caffeine intake on mood we don't really know." While the researchers aren't quite ready to recommend that women drink more coffee, Dr. Ascherio says personal responsibility is key: "We self-medicate ourselves with caffeine, and each person usually knows their optimal level."

Are you convinced? Do you think drinking coffee can lower the risk of depression?

I can personally attest to coffee helping depression (at least myself). When I suffered from depression, it wasn't the sole factor in my recovery, but it certainly helped a lot. Morning and afternoons are usually the hardest part of the day for people with depression, so waking up and having coffee had a very big positive impact on my mood. I felt more alert, excited, and awake-very opposite from what depression makes you feel like.

1. 20% is a pretty notable result, but the euphoric feeling after that first sip leads me to believe it is even higher. 2. This may actually explain the seemingly bizarre cottage industry of hand-painted coffee tribute mugs, paintings and wall hangings. (So happy!) 3. I've had two Americanos today and I'm feeling preeeety good. Sold.